The Lynbrook Public Schools Board of Education held its regular meeting at Lynbrook High School on April 18.
The Bern Seiderman Art Gallery presented its current exhibit titled “Pattern Palooza.” The exhibit features works from several grades that implement unique patterns, such as those on handbags made with fabric patterns sewn together by students, or collages inspired by artist Joanna Goodman. The Class Quilt is also featured, which is a creative and technical project that joined the works of dozens of students.
Next, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Melissa Burak recognized two winners in the PTA Reflections competition. West End Elementary School student Drex Farr was the overall winner in Nassau County across all age divisions and all art categories, ranking first out of 800 entries and earning him the Helen Vandermosten Arts in Education Award. Drex read his award-winning poem, titled “My Unique Voice,” to board trustees. Marion Street Elementary School student Zain Gaffoor was named a finalist for his photo, “I Am a Math Expert.”
The retirement of Paul Jankosky, who served for 22 years as a member of the Facilities Maintenance staff, was announced. Mr. Jankosky was presented with a plaque thanking him for his many years of service.
Two new teachers were welcomed into the district: Michael King, who will serve as a social studies teacher at Lynbrook High School, and Jodi Kossin, who will serve as a music teacher at West End.
The Lynbrook Council of PTA’s free Concert Clothing Swap will take place on May 3 from 7-9 p.m. at Lynbrook High School. All are welcome to find concert attire at no cost, including white shirts, black pants and black shoes in various sizes. They will also accept donations. Meet the Candidates will be held on May 1 at 7 p.m. at the high school.
The Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee recently met and discussed future collaborations between the high school Diversity Club and the elementary schools and the Kindergarten Center, and the activities surrounding Women’s History Month, Autism Awareness Month and spring multicultural celebrations.
The board shared the first reading of Policy 6145, which will reflect the return of unspent monies to the Facilities Reserve.
Trustees directed the district to contact local legislators to assist in the approval of upcoming construction plans, which have been shared with the state with the goal of a summer start date.
Instructional Technology Coordinator Neil MacDermott and West End Reading Specialist Melissa Kulikowsky held a presentation on Smart Start, a new technology grant and partnership with BOCES. Thirteen teachers from all three elementary schools participated in this professional development opportunity that equipped them with new ways to utilize technology in instruction. The program caters to students with varying needs, such as those learning English as a second language. Various programs are involved, including Book Creator, FlipGrid and Padlet.
Trustees voted to adopt the BOCES Administrative Operations budget and voted in support of the reelection of board candidates Deborah Coates, Lawrence Greenstein and Eric Schultz.
All 105 registrants to the Universal Pre-Kindergarten lottery will be eligible for the free program. The program will be held at the Friedberg JCC and Tiny Tikes in Lynbrook.
Director of Guidance Laurie Mitchell held a presentation on the SEL Committee’s recommendation to move forward with a program entitled RULER. It is an evidence-based approach to social and emotional learning that supports the entire school community.
Construction on the Waverly Park court has begun, and the high school library will soon be cleared of all books in preparation for renovations.
Trustees read sympathy resolutions for Alfred Peterson, who served as the principal of South Middle School for 15 years, and Brenda Arum, who served as a foreign language teacher at the high school for 27 years.
Trustees accepted donations of $12,604 from the Excellence in Education Foundation, Inc.; $3,000 from Lynbrook SEPTA; $1,000 from Community Chest South Shore; and $2,400 from the Marion Street PTA.
Date Added: 4/20/2023